This Lemon Butter Garlic Shrimp is a delicious dish that’s quick to make and full of flavor! The juicy shrimp are cooked in a buttery, garlicky sauce with a zing of lemon, making every bite refreshing.
Honestly, this meal is a real crowd-pleaser! I love serving it over some rice or pasta, and trust me, you will be licking your plate clean. Yum! 🍤
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Fresh or frozen shrimp works here. If using frozen, be sure to thaw them properly. For a more budget-friendly option, you can swap in shrimp with tails removed, or even use scallops or chicken if you prefer.
Butter: Unsalted butter gives the best control over saltiness. If you’re looking for a bit of healthiness, feel free to use olive oil or a healthier butter substitute, but the flavor will be slightly different.
Garlic: Fresh garlic adds amazing flavor, but if you don’t have it, garlic powder can work in a pinch—just use a bit less as it’s more concentrated.
Lemon: Fresh lemons give the best flavor, but bottled lemon juice can work too. You can also use lime juice for a different taste!
Parsley: Fresh parsley adds brightness. If you don’t have it, cilantro or even green onions can serve as a substitute with a unique twist, but the flavor will change.
How Do I Ensure My Shrimp Are Cooked Perfectly?
Cooking shrimp can be tricky because they cook fast and can easily become rubbery. Here’s how to get it right:
- Make sure your shrimp are fully thawed. A quick rinse under cold water works well.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan—cook in batches if needed to ensure even cooking.
- Look for color: shrimp should turn pink and opaque when done. Typically, they take 2-3 minutes on each side.
- Remove them from the heat right when they’re opaque to avoid overcooking!
Following these tips will help you serve up perfectly cooked shrimp every time. Enjoy your meal! 🍤
How to Make Lemon Butter Garlic Shrimp
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on)
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon, juiced (about 3 tablespoons)
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Lemon slices, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish will take about 10 minutes of prep time and 10 minutes of cooking time, totaling around 20 minutes. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Shrimp:
Start by rinsing the shrimp under cold water and patting them dry with paper towels. This step helps to remove any excess moisture. Once dried, season the shrimp lightly with salt and black pepper—this adds flavor!
2. Sauté the Garlic:
In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Once the butter is melted, add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute until it becomes fragrant. Be careful not to let it burn, as burnt garlic can make the dish taste bitter.
3. Cook the Shrimp:
Add the shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Cook them for about 2 minutes on each side, or until they turn pink and opaque. This shouldn’t take too long, so keep an eye on them! Once cooked, remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside on a plate.
4. Make the Lemon Butter Sauce:
Lower the heat to medium-low and add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter to the skillet. Once the butter is melted, stir in the lemon juice, lemon zest, and crushed red pepper flakes (if you’re using them). Mix in half of the chopped parsley. Allow the mixture to simmer for 1-2 minutes so the flavors meld together.
5. Combine & Serve:
Return the shrimp to the skillet and toss them gently to coat in the lemon butter garlic sauce. Heat everything through for another minute. Now, it’s time to plate! Transfer the shrimp to a serving plate and spoon the sauce from the skillet over the top. Finish with the remaining parsley and garnish with lemon slices for a beautiful presentation.
6. Enjoy!
Serve your Lemon Butter Garlic Shrimp immediately! It pairs wonderfully with rice, pasta, or even crusty bread to soak up that delicious sauce. Enjoy your meal and share it with friends or family!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw the shrimp completely before cooking. The best way to do this is by placing them in the fridge overnight or quickly thawing them in a sealed bag submerged in cold water for about 15-20 minutes.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth to maintain moisture and prevent drying out.
Can I Substitute Ingredients?
Definitely! If you’re out of fresh parsley, you can use dried parsley or even cilantro for a different flavor. For garlic, garlic powder can be used, but use less than the fresh amount as it’s more concentrated. You can also use olive oil instead of butter for a lighter option!
What Can I Serve with Lemon Butter Garlic Shrimp?
This dish pairs beautifully with rice, pasta, or crusty bread to soak up the sauce. You can also serve it alongside a fresh salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal!